USA-bound Travers to chase NBA dream

Perth Wildcats young gun Luke Travers will depart Perth for the United States this week to prepare for next month’s NBA Draft.

The 20-year-old declared his nomination on Sunday.

“I head off to LA on Friday night to start working out. As far as I’m aware, I’m working out with Jordan Lawley for the first week or two and then trying to ramp up those team workouts. It’s an exciting time,” said Travers.

“My reason for putting my name in is because my agent’s pretty confident that there’s some interest there, so as far as I know right now, I’m heading in a good direction.

“I’m excited to get over there and take it with two hands that’s for sure. I’m looking forward to it.”

Luke Travers elevated his game in 2021/22, dramatically increasing his on-court production in his first season as a fully contracted player.

He averaged 7.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 0.8 steals and 0.7 blocks per game, showing his versatility and potential all season, playing both inside and outside roles while also running the offense at times.

One of his reasons for striving to reach the NBA’s top-league is so his father can retire early.

“A big goal of mine is to stop my dad from working so if I can finally put that into action, it would be a dream come true,” said Travers.

“My dad’s one of the hardest workers I know and he’s got me to this point, as well as my mum, so to stop them from doing that sort of stuff will be pretty cool.”

The NBA Draft takes place on 23 June.